Albufeira

Algarve Escape: Albufeira with Old Town Charm and Benagil Adventures!

Andrea Lovatt on 08 Sept 2025

If you are dreaming of sunny days, golden beaches and a touch of adventure on the water, Albufeira in Portugal’s Algarve is a brilliant choice. Staying in New Town Albufeira gives you lively bars, restaurants and easy beach access on your doorstep, while the historic Old Town and spectacular Benagil Caves are just a stroll or boat ride away.

We stayed at the Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa in Albufeira, in the new town area, for 7 nights on all inclusive basis. It is a more modern hotel with a lovely pool area and really good standard of food and drink. Their all inclusive programme included a visit to their a la carte restaurant which was lovely! I had been to Albufeira before but wanted to stay again to see more of the area. We loved this hotel as it is close to Albufeira centre with shops, bars and restaurants but was also just a short taxi ride to Albufeira Old Town.

Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa

Albufeira Old Town: We actually went into the Old Town a few times during our holiday. We ate in the local restaurants and wandered down the cobbled streets browsing the small shops for local crafts and souvenirs and through the little squares lined with traditional cafés and then onwards to the busier areas with more modern pubs. If I go back to Albufeira I would like to stay in this area.

Albufeira Old Town

Beach Days on the Algarve Coast: Of course, one of the main reasons to choose Albufeira is its beautiful coastline. Long, sandy stretches backed by ochre cliffs offer plenty of room for everyone, whether you want to simply bask in the sun, swim in the clear water or try something more active. After our day on the beach we took the little train back up to our hotel.

Albufeira Beach

Albufeira’s Rugged Coastline: Further along the Albufeira coastline is a striking mix of golden cliffs, hidden coves and turquoise water, creating dramatic viewpoints and picture-perfect beaches all along this stretch of the Algarve …. Perfect for a more relaxing holiday.

Albufeira coast

Dolphin Watching and the Benagil Caves: We took a boat trip to the famous Benagil Caves. We set off from the marina and headed along the coast to the caves that has a natural skylight in its ceiling, allowing sunlight to pour in and illuminate the sand and turquoise water below.

Benagil Caves

We were then so lucky to see the dolphins swimming along with our boat. Seeing these beautiful animals in their natural environment is just a such a special experience.

Dolphins

A day in Vilamoura: We hired a car and spent the day in Vilamoura. We wandered around the marina looking at the yachts and stopping at a few bars for lunch and drinks around the quayside. I loved it here with its boutique shops and stalls around the marina and the beach and would love to stay here for maybe a few nights just to experience it in the evenings aswell. The 5* Tivoli Marina Hotel is on my list! ….

Vilamoura Hotel

Who is Albufeira perfect for?: Albufeira is ideal for families, couples and groups of friends who want a lively Algarve base with plenty of choice. With a mix of beautiful sandy beaches, child‑friendly activities and boat trips, it works brilliantly for families. The characterful Old Town, pretty coves and sunset drinks suit couples, while the famous Strip and buzzing nightlife are a big draw for those looking for late nights and a party atmosphere.

I have a massive choice of apartments and smaller hotels or larger all inclusive hotels to suite every taste and budget.

If you would like a holiday in the Algarve staying in the New Town or the Old Town or staying in Vilamoura just let me know.

Vilamoura

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